Government Forms

Funeral expenses covered by the Canada Pension Plan (CPP):

For families of contributors to the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), there are two kinds of financial assistance available:

1. Death benefits to cover funeral expenses
A one-time death benefit payment is paid to the deceased’s estate, up to a maximum of $2,500 (depending on the length of time contributions to CPP have been made).

2. Monthly pension for survivors
Surviving spouses and dependent children may receive a monthly pension if the deceased contributed to CPP for three consecutive years or more (some restrictions apply). For those who qualify, surviving spouses may receive benefits for the month after the contributor’s death for:

* A maximum pension of up to $446.87 per month (depending on age, and whether they receive other pensions, plus the length of time contributions were made).

* Up to $183.64 per month for each dependent child. A dependent child is defined as being under 18 years of age, or between 18 and 25 years of age and in full-time attendance at school, college or university.

These benefits are paid only to those who apply. Failure to apply within a year of the death will result in lost benefits. Applications may be made to Health and Welfare Canada, Income Security Program. Call 1-800-277-9914.

The forms are made available from your funeral director or you may get them here: